Mansfield Police Detective Michael Ellsworth said the pilot-in-training was certified to fly solo, and was attempting a series of “touch-and-go” exercises when the crash took place at 2:12 p.m. April 23.

Ellsworth said in “touch and go” exercises, the pilot lands the plane and then takes off again in quick succession.

After one such landing, the pilot was taxing to take off when he noticed his plane was veering to the left. In trying to bring the plane back on course, the nose of the plane pitched forward and the plane rolled over onto its roof.

The pilot quickly crawled to safety and refused medical assistance, said Ellsworth.

Ellsworth said airport officials prevented fire from breaking out by their immediate response in shutting off the plane’s fuel line.

The crash is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission. Police would not release the pilot’s name.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.